As the football world pays its respects to Real Madrid and German national team midfielder Toni Kroos following Germany’s elimination by Spain at Euro 2024, one crucial detail about Kroos’ greatness is often overlooked.
For years, Kroos has been recognized as a winner for both club and country, amassing Champions League trophies with Real Madrid and earning the highest player rating at the 2014 World Cup. His impeccable passing, vision, and creativity were pivotal in supporting attacking talents like Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Vinicius Junior.
Despite misconceptions, such as misattributed quotes from Cesc Fabregas criticizing sideways passing, Kroos’ nine seasons with at least seven assists debunk any claims of inflated statistics. Even the harshest critics can’t deny his prowess as a midfield general and passer.
Yet, among knowledgeable football fans, Kroos is still undervalued in one significant aspect: his competitive fire. While known for his calm demeanor and tactical brilliance, Kroos’ final season at Real Madrid showcased his relentless desire to win. His gritty performance against Spain in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals, marked by fouls and arguments with referees, exemplified his fierce competitiveness.
Kroos, much like Cristiano Ronaldo and Sergio Ramos, embodied the philosophy that winning required doing whatever it took. His elegance on the pitch was matched by a willingness to play dirty, commit cynical fouls, and engage in on-field disputes.
Kroos’ legacy as a perfectionist and ruthless competitor is undeniable, and his final season should be appreciated for the fire he brought to every game. Despite his graceful style, Kroos was a hard-nosed competitor, putting his team first and striving to win at all costs. This blend of elegance and ferocity made him a true Real Madrid legend.
